Kansas City Chiefs Add Maclin As They Look To Rejoin Playoff Picture

The Kansas City Chiefs took a step backwards in 2014, going 9-7 after reaching the playoffs in 2013 with an 11-5 record. Any Reid is about to begin his third season as the Chiefs head coach, and brought in a major weapon in the passing game to even out the offense and lighten the load for Pro Bowl running back Jamaal Charles.

The Chiefs splash was signing wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, who previously played for Reid during his tenure in Philadelphia. Maclin, who went to high school near Kansas City, said about his decision to come to Kansas City, “It just felt like home.” Maclin had a career year last season, catching 85 passes with 10 touchdowns.

Because Reid brought along most of his staff for Philadelphia, Maclin is familiar with over 10 assistants and trainers. The Chiefs also signed Maclin’s teammate in Philadelphia, wide receiver Jason Avant. Kansas City cut ties with Dwayne Bowe, Donnie Avery and tight end Anthony Fasano.

The last of those moves should free up tight end Travis Kelce, who has the word “upside” attached to his name more than any other tight end. This might be the season they let Kelce loose.

As for the defense, the team nabbed Justin Houston with the franchise tag. They signed safety Tyvon Branch and cornerback Ron Parker.

All of these signs point to Alex Smith and the offense looking for some more explosive plays, as Smith ranked 20th in the NFL in passing yards, 24th in passing yards per attempt and 22nd in passing yards per game.

The Chiefs have to look to improve inside their division. Last season they were 3-3 in AFC West games, but have to take advantage of their games against the Chargers and Raiders while competing with the Broncos, who have won the division four seasons in a row.